I saw widows in black, merchants noisily talking, maitre d's pushing me to eat, cats licking, dogs playing and little greek children roughing it up. I was so thrilled to be here.
Our new friends were staying at the Astra Apartments. Their villa was perched on a rocky terrace with a beautiful view of the sea with this magnificent rock smack dab in the center, reminiscent of the "Close Encounters" mountain. The setting was spectacular, sun about to set, table on the terrace, candle burning, the music of Seal playing and the smells of heaven coming from the kitchen.
The sun quickly began to set. It soon became only two slits, like two eyes peering through the clouds, then it changed into one eye winking at us, then its lid slowly closed, wishing us all goodnight until tomorrow. We got closer to each other and the food got more and more rich in its glorious scent. Bread was served, wine was poured and the feast of pasta with stuffed capers was presented. What a delight! The meal was not as important as the company. Were we reconnecting?
The lesson of our trip was truly pounding us over the head. Commitments, relationships, how special they are, and how we are most likely here to learn more about intimate relationships. Our conversation picked up from our lunchtime conversation - we talked of spirituality, time, love, relationships, souls, energy, desires - it was a magical night - eating, drinking, loving. LOVE. Always back to love. It was dark around us, but beauty was still everywhere, even if the eye couldn't see it. We all took turns protecting the flame from the burning candle on the table from going out - the symbol of us helping to keep the flame burning was very strong. We all agreed we were brought here for a reason. Robert seems like a brother to me. We decided we'd go when the candle burnt out and then changed our minds to blowing it all out together. After blowing it out together, it was time to go.
Nothing could compare to this evening.
What a special evening, following a special day. Greece, our lessons, love, friendship - all wrapped up in one beautiful moment in time. I had gone back in time, to a place of long ago, a place called Greece. I was taught many things, whether new or old - taught to relax, go more slowly, be still more often. I was shown how committed couples are a possibility, commited couples who love each other strongly, deeply, passionately, how intimate relationships and friendships are really not that different at all. I loved what I saw and what I learned. Mykonos and Santorini have so much beauty: in the homes, the people and the sea that intoxicates everything it touches and everyone who beholds it. I will keep these beautiful memories in me forever, and remember the lessons I have been shown. Greece, Epharisto Poli!